Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports, Coaching & Development (Port Vale FC)

Course Summary

The Port Vale Football & Education Programme offers three routes for young people wanting to begin a career in sport:

Mens 11v11 Squad

Those registered to the Programme will study a BTEC Level 3 course in Sport, alongside additional football related qualifications, while training up to four times a week with UEFA qualified coaches and representing Port Vale every week against other professional clubs.

Every student will receive a full training kit and match day tracksuit, plus tickets to every Port Vale home league game.

Alongside studies at the College, students will represent Port Vale in 11-a-side competitions in either the National Football Youth League or the EFL Community & Education Alliance League, training four times a week and receiving top-level coaching from professional and experienced Port Vale staff.

The Level 3 Extended Diploma is an advanced course that investigates current issues and principles around the development of sports coaching and fitness. This involves aspects of sports coaching and development, exercise for specific groups, talent identification and organising sports events. This is a theory and practical based course. You will be provided with the knowledge and practical skills required to work in or study at higher levels in the fields of sports development, sports coaching, fitness instructing and physical education. This course has excellent links with schools and charitable sporting foundations that enable students to gain valuable field based coaching and leadership experience, making it an ideal qualification for those interested in this area.

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs grade A*-C, BTEC First Diploma, appropriate NVQ Level 2 or Intermediate
qualification. All applicants will require a GCSE in English grade A*-C or
equivalent. You will have a pre induction interview/assessment to make sure this is the right level for you.

How Is It Assessed

The course is assessed through a varied range of assessment methods. These will include; written assignments, group and individual presentations, role play, practical observation, report writing, poster presentations and oral questioning. The assessments take place throughout the course so you will not have to face any final exams at the end to pass the course. You will be able to monitor your assessments and progress at any stage.

How Is It Taught

The course is delivered through a wide range of teaching and learning styles. Students will use the latest IT facilities to investigate aspects of the subject area, promoting research and independent leaning skills, which will be supported and put into use in real life situations both inside and outside of the college environment. An extensive range of employers from the industry area will be involved in the support and delivery of the subject material. Student involvement is encouraged at all times to help your learning and understanding.

What Could I do Next

Completing the course opens up a range of options for a career in football, including work experience/placement opportunities at Port Vale, access to university courses and the chance of earning a semi-professional or professional contract or scholarship. The Extended Diploma is a vocational qualification which is recognised by many employers in the sports industry and is therefore likely to result in enhanced employment prospects. Alternatively you could progress to a University degree programme.

What Else Do I Need To Know

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is a vocational qualification which is recognised by employers for the skill it provides in a specific subject area and is accepted by colleges and universities as equivalent to three A-Levels. Please note: It takes 2 years to complete this full Level 3 qualification. Progression to the second year of the course is subject to successful achievement of the first year of the course.